IPI Confab: Press Freedom Remains Strong In Nigeria, Says Minister

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to press freedom, emphasizing that despite challenges, the country’s media landscape remains vibrant under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Speaking at the 2024 Annual Conference of the International Press Institute (IPI) yesterday in Abuja, themed “Democracy, Media Freedom, and the Imperative of Protecting the Nigerian Civic Space,” the minister highlighted the administration’s dedication to safeguarding press freedom and reinforcing Nigeria’s democratic framework.

“While challenges exist, Nigeria has enjoyed openness and freedom that have led to the proliferation of press organizations across print, broadcast, and digital platforms,” he stated.

Idris credited President Tinubu for prioritizing media freedom, noting, “Since taking office, the President has consistently demonstrated his commitment to protecting civic space, media freedom, and constitutional liberties.”

The minister also highlighted ongoing efforts to reform and strengthen the judiciary to ensure the protection of fundamental rights, including freedom of speech, association, and the press.

However, he stressed the importance of responsibility in the exercise of press freedom, urging the media to wield its influence responsibly while fostering healthy debates and holding institutions accountable.

“Media freedom involves recognizing the immense power of the press as shapers of public opinion. This power must be used ethically to promote democratic values and advance societal progress,” he said.

The minister also touched on Nigeria’s economic reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing initiatives to diversify the economy, improve infrastructure, and enhance social investment programmes.

He noted that funds previously lost to subsidies have been redirected into critical sectors like education, agriculture, and low-cost credit facilities.

For his part, the IPI president Musikilu Mojeed commended the collaboration that made the event possible and praised the participation of key stakeholders, including the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) and representatives of the Nigeria Police Force.

He stressed the importance of dialogue in addressing challenges to press freedom.

Similarly, the chairman of the IPI Board of Trustees, Mallam Kabiru Yusuf, urged journalists to remain steadfast in defending press freedom. “Freedom is like health—you only realize its value when it is lost. Protecting press freedom is vital not just for journalism but for society as a whole,” he said.

Yusuf underscored the role of journalism in amplifying marginalised voices and safeguarding democracy. Citing a recent case in which detained protesters were released following media advocacy, he reminded attendees of the press’s ability to promote justice and accountability.

A renowned media expert Prof. Tonnie Iredia also spoke at the conference, calling for a reevaluation of media practices.

He urged journalists to embrace the agenda-setting role of the media, uphold ethical values, and move beyond superficial reporting.

“The media must focus not just on informing but also on educating. It should adopt a follow-up approach, work collaboratively with the public, and apply principled journalism to advance society,” he said.

He furthermore called for a collective action to protect press freedom, promote accountability, and ensure that the media continues to serve as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democracy.